Nature & Environment

Learn what you can do to help save threatened monarch butterflies. Participants of this class will learn what it takes to create a butterfly garden and gain the know-how to raise monarchs from egg to butterfly. You will learn about potential pitfalls and how to test for parasites, ensuring the monarchs you release are healthy! Follow the path of the Super Generation from York, Pennsylvania to the forests of Mexico and understand how multiple generations of these magnificent creatures make the same trip year after year.

Pennsylvania ranks number one in the United States in the number of Lyme disease cases per year, and ticks are a constant companion when spending time outdoors during the summer. However, there are many steps that you can take to protect yourself from Lyme and other tick-borne diseases. In this course, learn about tick biology, how ticks cause disease, and how to use this knowledge to prevent tick bites and tick-borne diseases.
 

Pennsylvania ranks number one in the United States in the number of Lyme disease cases per year, and ticks are a constant companion when spending time outdoors during the summer. However, there are many steps that you can take to protect yourself from Lyme and other tick-borne diseases. In this course, learn about tick biology, how ticks cause disease, and how to use this knowledge to prevent tick bites and tick-borne diseases.
 

Take a paddle on Black Moshannon Lake to discover interesting facts about the plants and animals that live here. All kayaking equipment will be provided. 

Special notes: Meet at Black Moshannon State Park at Boat Launch #1. Boat Launch #1 is located across Route 504 from the beach area. There will be a restroom nearby for use before and after the kayak trip. Kayaks include 9-foot kayaks with a 250-pound weight limit, two 10-foot kayaks with a 325-pound weight limit, and two tandem kayaks. Two adaptive kayaks are available upon request. This includes wrist and hand adaptations, a seat to help with sitting up straight, and a pedal kayak. If a participant needs an adaptive kayak, please call the Black Moshannon State Park office at 814-342-5960 before the course. Bring extra clothes in case you get wet. Participants may also want to bring sunscreen, drinks, a snack, and bug spray. Personal flotation devices (PFDs) will be provided, and they must be worn while kayaking. A DCNR Bureau of State Parks liability form will need to be signed to participate in the course. This is available for review upon request.

This course will show some important geologic features along the Susquehanna River and explain how we can determine the age of the river.

Mother Nature is providing increasingly variable rainfall. Delve into some hacks and ancient honored techniques that assist your watering routines. Learn how to ensure your plants stay hydrated and deliver production and beauty. Share strategies for maintaining plants’ health while away on vacation. Walk away with tips and tricks to keep your garden thriving in an unpredictable rainy season.

Roadside springs are often perceived as pristine water sources with good-tasting water. However, the use of these unregulated springs can pose unexpected health risks. Faith will share findings and insights from a statewide water quality monitoring of popular roadside springs. This course is for anyone interested in environmental and water resources, travelers and outdoor enthusiasts, and roadside spring users. Learn insights into microbial and chemical contamination in roadside springs and potential human health risks from using untreated roadside springs for drinking water.

 

Roadside springs are often perceived as pristine water sources with good-tasting water. However, the use of these unregulated springs can pose unexpected health risks. Faith will share findings and insights from a statewide water quality monitoring of popular roadside springs. This course is for anyone interested in environmental and water resources, travelers and outdoor enthusiasts, and roadside spring users. Learn insights into microbial and chemical contamination in roadside springs and potential human health risks from using untreated roadside springs for drinking water.

 

Forget the non-native honey bee and its much-publicized challenges for a moment. Pennsylvania is home to over 400 species of wild bees who play an important role in pollination and who lead diverse and fascinating lives. Find out something about where and how they live. Learn what differentiates them from flies and wasps. Appreciate these lesser known bees who visit your garden and learn how you can help prevent their decline.
 

We will take a look at the unique history and mission of York Fresh Food Farms, how it has grown, and the people that we serve. We will look into the challenges of growing fresh, local food year-round, and the ways that we continue to grow the organization's impact in our community, a community that often faces food insecurity in what is known as a fresh food desert.

Come to Shaver's Creek to enjoy an evening with the hummingbirds. Learn about their natural history and how to attract them to your yard.

Special notes: Please dress for the weather. Participants will take a short walk around the grounds of Shaver’s Creek. Allow for an extra five minutes to walk from the parking lot to the Center.